Many visitors flock to the Mariposa Grove to see its famous giant sequoia trees. Of the more than 500 mature giant sequoia trees in the grove, there is one straight and proud tree with a story that touches the very heart of Yosemite’s history: the Galen Clark Tree. This magnificent sequoia honors the man who became Yosemite’s first official guardian and played a pivotal role in protecting these ancient wonders...
February is a particularly inspiring time to visit Yosemite. With magical winter scenery and the particularly spectacular Natural Firefall in the second half of the month, there is plenty to see and discover in Yosemite in February. Read on to learn more about must-do activities, what to expect from the weather, the best places to stay, and general tips for making the most of your February visit. Why Visit Yosemite...
Yosemite’s scenery is especially stunning during the winter months. You’ll find a halo of snow along the high peaks and clinging to ledges along the famous cliffs. The park is open, and in one of its most-quiet and majestic seasons. Even if you’ve visited before in another season, you’ll find winter in Yosemite to be a unique and magical experience. On most days, getting around in winter is easy enough...
10 Ways to Find Magic in Your Winter Visit to Yosemite Yosemite’s winters are simply enchanting – a breath of clean crisp air and soaring granite cliffs decorated in snow. Take advantage of this extraordinary season in Yosemite with some of our favorite winter activities. Here are some of the best reasons to make plans for a magical snowy getaway in Yosemite this winter. 1. Ski/Snowboard at Badger Pass...
In January, Yosemite sleeps under a blanket of snow. A feeling of quiet settles over the landscape, making it easy to find quiet spaces where you can pause and reflect on the year, either solo or in the company of those closest to you. There is plenty to keep you busy during the days, and the long winter nights mean that it is more important than ever to have some...
Yosemite’s Fallen Monarch Giant Sequoia tree is one of the first named trees that visitors encounter during a visit to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. What is left of its immense root system fans high overhead, astonishing visitors to the grove with its complexity and majesty. This organic crown of ancient roots also illustrates important lessons about sequoia tree structures and underscores ways that we can ensure that the...
The California Tunnel Tree is one of the most popular and beloved trees in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, with good reason. This is the only place in the world where you can walk through a living giant sequoia tunnel tree. Learn where to find this legendary tree and some of its fascinating history below. Whatever else you do, be sure to add a visit to the California Tunnel...
Grab your camera, and hiking boots, wax your skis, and get ready for a magical visit to Yosemite National Park in December. If you’ve already managed a visit to Yosemite during the winter months, you know the special charm of a snow-covered landscape, beautiful enough when it was bare, now decorated in a soft blanket of white to heighten the grandeur. December welcomes the winter season with promises of evergreen...
November is a magical time to visit the park. In the early part of the month, most of the park is still likely to be open, so there’s still time to catch views of Yosemite’s high country and some spectacular fall color. Later in the month, Yosemite provides a stunning backdrop for a Thanksgiving—or Thanksgiving-adjacent—gathering with friends and family. November is also a quiet time of the year outside of...
Dogs are allowed in Yosemite National Park. Let’s explore a few places that you will want to explore with your pup. Which Trails Can You Take Your Dog On In Yosemite? There is a lot you can see and do with your dog in Yosemite, because so much of Yosemite’s iconic scenery is visible from the paved roads, sidewalks, and bicycle paths that your dog is allowed on. Keep your...
